Kankaanauha

Kankaanauha is a type of traditional Finnish handicraft, originating from the southern regions of the country. It involves the weaving of seats for chairs, typically made from straw or thin wooden strips. This craft has a long history, dating back to the 16th century, when it was mainly practiced alongside other natural fiber crafts such as basketry.

The term "kankaanauha" directly translates to "straw strip" or "braid", which accurately describes the process involved in its creation. Artisans would carefully arrange the threads of straw or thin wood to form seats, paying close attention to the colors and patterns of the materials used. They often used natural dyes or undyed wood strips to add to the beauty of the piece.

Kankaanauha was traditionally used as a chair seat, often in conjunction with hand-carved wooden chairs. Its flexible and lightweight design made it suited for homes with wooden floors and provided a comfortable seating option for people to relax. It also played a practical role in improving the aesthetic of local furniture.

This type of craftsmanship declined with the onset of industrialization and the rise of modern manufacturing. However, efforts are being made to preserve this traditional skill and make it more accessible to new generations of artists and craftspeople. Today, kankaanauha is considered a cultural heritage craft by the Finnish museum of folk art and the local community, who appreciate and value its historical significance and cultural importance.